Assoc Chief Counsel, Medicaid

Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is led by Secretary Janet Stanek and comprises three divisions: Public Health, Environment, and Health Care Finance (including the State’s Medicaid program, KanCare). This unique structure allows a holistic approach to improving and protecting the health and well-being of all Kansans.

About the role

The Associate Chief Counsel, Medicaid provides legal services as an attorney in areas of Medicaid, KanCare, contract law, HIPAA compliance, and related issues for the Division of Health Care Finance. Duties include case negotiations, representation of the agency in administrative and judicial hearings (including appellate courts), drafting and reviewing Medicaid regulations, and providing legal advice to the Division. The role may also involve representing the Division before legislative committees and supervising a team of two.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal services in Medicaid, KanCare, contract law, HIPAA compliance, and related areas.
• Negotiate cases and represent the agency in administrative and judicial hearings, including appellate courts.
• Draft, review, and edit Medicaid regulations.
• Provide legal advice to the Division of Health Care Finance.
• Represent the Division before legislative committees.
• Supervise a team of two attorneys/staff.
• Analyze, appraise, and organize facts, evidence, and precedents for clear oral or written presentations (e.g., briefs, opinions, orders).
• Analyze legal documents and instruments.

Requirements

• Juris Doctor from a U.S. accredited law school.
• Certificate of admission to the Bar of the Supreme Court of Kansas or a temporary permit to practice law issued by the Supreme Court of Kansas at the time of hire.
• Active member of the Kansas Bar in good standing or ability to receive a law license in Kansas upon application or motion.
• Valid driver’s license (required for operating state, private, or rental vehicles for state business).
• Ability to analyze and present legal materials in clear, logical form for oral or written presentations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access.
• Strong proofreading, editing, and attention to detail.

Qualifications

• Minimum:
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Bachelor’s degree.
  • Some environmental law experience.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Preferred:
  • 3 years of progressive legal experience.
  • 1 year of experience practicing law as a licensed attorney.
  • Supervision experience of junior attorneys and staff.
  • Experience drafting, promulgating, and defending administrative regulations and policies.

Post-Offer Requirements

• Licensed to practice law in the State of Kansas.
• Valid Kansas Tax Clearance Certificate (required for all state employees; can be obtained through the Kansas Department of Revenue).

Pay

Annual pay range: $95,000 – $98,000. Salary varies based on education, experience, or qualifications.

Schedule

Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (flexible schedules available). Full-time, regular position.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, mental, dental, and vision coverage.
• Sick and vacation leave.
• Work-life balance programs: parental leave, military leave, jury leave, funeral leave.
• Paid state holidays (designated annually by the Governor).
• Fitness centers in select locations.
• Employee discounts with the STAR Program.
• Retirement and deferred compensation programs.

Veterans’ preference eligible. KDHE does not provide sponsorship for this position.